As we age, facial and neck changes become more noticeable. Bagging of the skin, jowls, and sagging muscles in the neck can undermine self-confidence and make an individual look older than they are. If you are considering cosmetic enhancement, you may have heard of facelift surgery and neck rejuvenation, but you may not be aware of the distinction between them.
In this article, we are going to break down the differences, discuss what both procedures target, and how the facial plastic surgery experts in California, especially the best plastic surgeon in Newport Beach, can guide you toward a suitable decision.
Understanding Facelift Surgery
Facelift surgery, or rhytidectomy, is done to rejuvenate the face to a younger state by addressing sagging skin, deep lines, and jowls. The surgery is directed at the mid and lower face, tightening and lifting tissue for a smoother appearance.
Among the key benefits of facelift surgery are:
Reducing deep facial folds around the mouth and nose
Sagging cheeks and jowls are lifting
Loose skin anchoring for smoother contours
Facial harmony overall improvement
Unlike other less invasive treatments, a facelift produces long-lasting results, holding the facial youth for 10 years and beyond if performed by the best plastic surgeon in Newport Beach.
What is a Necklift?
Necklift, or neck rejuvenation in Los Angeles, is primarily focused on the neck and jaw area. The procedure addresses:
Loose or sagging skin under the chin
"Aging" or "weight loss" "turkey neck"
Muscle banding that creates visible vertical cords
Weak definition of the jawline
While a facelift can treat the lower face, a necklift is solely meant to give a smoother, tighter, and more defined neck. Most patients undergo both procedures for the holistic rejuvenation of the face and neck.
Major Differences Between a Facelift and a Necklift
| Feature | Facelift Surgery | Neck Rejuvenation |
| Target Area | Mid and lower face (cheeks, jowls, jawline) | Neck and under-chin area |
| Main Concern | Sagging cheeks, deep facial folds, jowls | Loose neck skin, muscle bands, double chin |
| Technique | Lifts and repositions facial tissues; removes excess skin | Tightens neck muscles; remove excess skin; sometimes liposuction |
| Recovery | 2-3 weeks with swelling/bruising | 1-2 weeks; often less swelling than facelift |
| Ideal Candidate | Anyone with visible facial sagging | Anyone with loose neck skin or muscle laxity |
| Combined Option | Often combined with necklift for full effect | Often combined with facelift for balanced results |
Why Opt for a Specialist Facial Plastic Surgeon
Whether you’re considering facelift surgery or neck rejuvenation in Los Angeles, results depend heavily on the surgeon’s expertise. The best plastic surgeon in Newport Beach will:
Evaluate your facial anatomy and aging patterns.
Recommend the procedure or combination that gives the most natural, harmonious results.
Minimise scarring and downtime through precise surgical techniques.
Customise recovery plans to match your lifestyle and goals.
California patients, particularly in Los Angeles and Newport Beach, seek surgeons who are both artistically and technically skilful. The desire is a refreshed, youthful look without a "done" appearance.
Recovery Expectations
Recovery varies by procedure:
Facelift Surgery: Swelling, bruising, and minimal pain last 2–3 weeks. Patients usually resume normal social levels within 2–3 weeks.
Necklift Surgery: Swelling and mild soreness typically are less severe. Individuals can normally return to work 1–2 weeks after the procedure, with the best results visible in several months.
With either procedure, strict compliance with post-operative care—such as head elevation, avoiding strenuous activity, and follow-ups—is made easier and outcomes enhanced.
Final Thoughts
Whereas both neck rejuvenation and facelift surgery address aging signs, the variation is in the areas treated and the outcome delivered. A facelift recreates the lower face, correcting sagging jowls and cheeks, while a necklift produces a tighter and smoother neck and jawline. Often, when done together, the two deliver a total facial makeover.
Meet Dr.Ardesh
Dr. Ardesh, Beauty Mark MD, a double-board certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, has delivered over 7,000 natural results with expertise and empathy. He formerly served as a college professor in the departments of head and neck surgery, ophthalmology, and dermatology at Loma Linda University, after which he established his private practice. Creating a refreshed look, not “worked on,” has established him as one of the best plastic surgeons in Beverly Hills and Newport Beach.
